Pfc. Justin M. Whitmire

FORT HOOD, Texas — The Department of Defense announced the death of a Soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Pfc. Justin M. Whitmire, 20, whose home of record is listed as Easley, S.C., died Dec. 27 2011 in Paktia, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered from the detonation of an improvised explosive device.

Whitmire joined the military in September 2010 as a health care specialist and was assigned to the 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade, Fort Hood, since September 2011.

Whitmire deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in July 2011.

Whitmire’s awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.